Imphal, October 14 2010:
In view of the threats allegedly issued by the NSCN (IM) against elected members of Autonomous District Councils (ADCs) belonging to the Naga/Tangkhul community for defying directive of the Naga rebel group, Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh has assured maximum security coverage to the ADC members.

In the backdrop of the alleged threat, a high level meeting was convened at the CM's Conference Hall today during which the issue was deliberated thoroughly and culminated with O Ibobi Singh directing the state's Director General of Police to take up necessary measures with immediate effect.

The meeting presided over by the CM was also attended by MPCC president Gaikhangam, SPF Council of Ministers, the Chief Secretary, DGP and many Naga councillors.

Speaking to the Sangai Express on condition of anonymity after the meeting, an ADC Chairman said that the NSCN (IM) had asked all Naga councillors to tender their resignations as the ADC elections were conducted amidst boycott call by several Naga organisations, who were of the view that the poll process was a forced imposition detrimental to the interest of the Nagas.

The Chairman went to the extent of claiming that the rebel group had threatened capital punishment in case directive to resign as Council members was not complied with as the defiance would be construed as an affront to the organisation.

At the meeting the CM is informed to have noted the fact that inspite of the threat no Naga councillor has succumbed to the pressure and assured enhanced security cover, including house guard provision, to all.

The ADC councillors on their side have reportedly expressed resentment against delay in devolution of power to which the CM assured expeditious action.

O Ibobi pledged to the Councillors that process for devolution of power to the ADCs would be initiated as soon as report of the Hill Areas Committee is received.